A recent study revealed that two men from Rochester, New York, died from pneumonia caused by a fungal infection after using bat guano (feces) as fertilizer for their marijuana plants.
RELATED STORIES: Criminal Justice Advocate Donte West Helps Free Non-Violent Marijuana Offender Deshaun Durham as Gov. Laura Kelly Grants Clemency
The cases documented by the Open Forum Infectious Disease involve two men, aged 64 and 59, who contracted fatal lung infections caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which is found in bat feces. According to the New York Post, this fungus is native to the eastern United States and can be transmitted by inhaling fungal spores or through ingestion. Guano, which is bat feces, has become increasingly popular as a fertilizer due to its nutrient-rich properties.
The 59-year-old man bought guano online to fertilize his marijuana plants, while the 64-year-old removed guano from his attic after a bat infestation. Though the cases are unrelated, both men contracted the same infection. Histoplasma capsulatum is a fungus that can cause histoplasmosis, a serious lung infection. Symptoms such as fever, cough, chest pain, fatigue, chills, and body aches usually appear 3 to 17 days after exposure.
RELATED STORIES: Florida Voters Reject Ballot Measures To Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use And Protect Abortion Rights
Additionally, the 59-year-old was reportedly a heavy smoker with emphysema and arthritis. Before his death, he experienced breathing issues, weight loss, and throat pain. He later passed away after his body didn’t respond to antifungal treatments during his hospitalization. The 64-year-old developed lesions in his chest and pancreas while already suffering from severe arterial disease.
Researchers emphasized that protective measures, such as wearing masks, are recommended when handling guano to reduce exposure to fungal spores along with testing for commercial biofertilizers.
